Jaylin Simpson, an Auburn defensive back who spent five years on The Plains, formally declared on social media on Wednesday morning that he would be entering the 2024 NFL Draft.

In a written farewell that was uploaded to his Instagram account, Simpson stated, “To me, Auburn has been more than just a university; it’s been a home.” The experiences—friendships, knowledge, triumphs, and even setbacks—have all added up to something I will always treasure.

“The Auburn spirit is with me as I aim for the NFL Draft in 2024. Thank you to all of my coaches, teammates, and the Auburn community for making these years genuinely unforgettable. Cheers to all the memories past and future. Forever, War Eagle!

On December 6, Simpson accepted his invitation to the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl, suggesting that he would probably forgo his final year of eligibility and enter the professional ranks. But he’s made up his mind now.

Following a successful 2023 season at safety where he recorded 36 tackles, four interceptions, and four pass breakups en route to an outstanding 78.3 season grade according to Pro Football Focus, Simpson has decided to pursue a career in the major leagues.

Simpson gave up just one touchdown on 25 targets in coverage during the season, according to PFF.

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Gene Chizik out as North Carolina defensive coordinator

It was revealed on Wednesday that Gene Chizik will not be returning to North Carolina in 2024 as defensive coordinator.

Chizik, 62, just finished his second season of a second stint with the Tar Heels, who finished 8-5 after losing 30-10 to West Virginia in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl on December 27. North Carolina ranked 72nd in scoring defense and 95th overall in the nation.

In his 46 years as a football coach, Mack Brown of North Carolina said, “Gene Chizik is one of the best football coaches I’ve shared the sideline with.” “He is a man of faith who gave his all to give the young men he coached the best mentoring and coaching he could.”

“After the season, we had a lot of meetings, and even though this season was better than the previous one, we both felt that it would be best for him and the program to split ways. I’d like to express my gratitude to Gene and his family for their invaluable contributions to our program and send them my best wishes.

Chizik, who led Auburn from 2009 to 2012, also served as UNC’s defensive coordinator from 2015 to 2016 before resigning to spend more time with his family. He worked for ESPN on television before going back to the field in 2022.

Additionally, Chizik served as the defensive coordinator for Auburn from 2002 to 2004 and Texas from 2005 to 2006, both times working under Brown. He played a part in the Tigers’ 2004 Sugar Bowl championship team, which went undefeated, and the Longhorns’ 2005 national championship team.

“It has been an absolute blessing to be a part of 36 victories and two ACC Coastal Championships in my four years at UNC,” Chizik said. “I want to wish all of the coaches, players, and administration the very best going forward. Mack Brown and I will always be the closest of friends. I’m in love with these UNC students, and I’ll always be happy that our paths crossed.

2009 saw Chizik take over as Tigers head coach in place of Tommy Tuberville following a four-year tenure at Iowa State. In 2010, his Tigers won the BCS national championship after going 14-0.